Role Overview for Director of Logistics & Distribution with an E-commerce Retailer – Indianapolis, IN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, high-growth e-commerce retailer in a confidential search for a visionary Director of Logistics & Distribution. Based in the strategic logistics hub of Indianapolis, IN, this executive role is a cornerstone of our client’s operational leadership team. The successful candidate will be the architect and steward of the entire physical supply chain, from inbound receipt to final-mile delivery, ensuring a seamless, cost-effective, and world-class customer experience. This is not just a management position; it is a strategic imperative.
You will be tasked with building a scalable, resilient, and technologically advanced distribution network capable of supporting exponential growth in a highly competitive market. You will own the strategy, execution, and continuous improvement of all logistics, warehousing, fulfillment, and transportation functions. The ideal candidate is a data-driven leader with a profound understanding of e-commerce dynamics, a passion for operational excellence, and a proven track record of building and mentoring high-performing teams. If you are ready to make a significant impact on a rapidly expanding brand and define the future of its supply chain, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Logistics & Distribution with an E-commerce Retailer – Indianapolis, IN
As the Director of Logistics & Distribution, you will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, driving both strategic initiatives and tactical execution. Your primary goal is to create a best-in-class logistics operation that serves as a competitive advantage for the business.
Strategic Leadership & Network Design
Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-term logistics and distribution strategy that aligns with the company’s aggressive growth targets. This includes network modeling, capacity planning, and identifying optimal locations for future fulfillment centers and distribution nodes. You will constantly evaluate the network’s design to improve speed, reduce costs, and enhance service levels.
Fulfillment & Warehouse Operations Management
Oversee the daily operations of multiple fulfillment centers. You will be responsible for all aspects of warehouse management, including receiving, put-away, inventory control, picking, packing, and shipping. Implement and enforce best practices for safety, quality, and productivity across all sites, ensuring a secure and efficient work environment.
Inventory Management & Accuracy
Champion best-in-class inventory control processes. Develop and manage cycle counting programs, physical inventory audits, and reporting systems to ensure exceptional inventory accuracy. Collaborate closely with the Merchandising and Planning teams to optimize inventory placement, manage stock levels, and minimize carrying costs while ensuring high in-stock rates.
Transportation & Carrier Management
Direct all inbound and outbound transportation activities. This includes managing relationships, negotiating contracts, and monitoring the performance of a diverse portfolio of carriers, including parcel (e.g., FedEx, UPS), LTL, FTL, and final-mile delivery partners. Develop and implement a robust transportation management strategy to optimize routes, reduce transit times, and control freight spend.
Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Partnership Management
If applicable, you will select, onboard, and manage relationships with 3PL providers. Establish clear service level agreements (SLAs), key performance indicators (KPIs), and a regular business review cadence to ensure 3PL partners are meeting and exceeding performance, quality, and cost expectations.
Team Leadership & Development
Build, lead, and mentor a high-caliber logistics and distribution team. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Provide coaching and career development opportunities to your direct reports and build a strong leadership pipeline within the operations organization.
Performance Analytics & Reporting
Establish and monitor a comprehensive suite of KPIs to measure every facet of the logistics operation, including on-time shipping, order accuracy, cost-per-unit, inventory turns, and carrier performance. Utilize data to identify trends, pinpoint opportunities for improvement, and provide regular, insightful performance reports to the executive leadership team.
Technology & Systems Integration
Drive the strategic use of technology to enhance operational efficiency and visibility. You will lead the optimization of the Warehouse Management System (WMS), Transportation Management System (TMS), and other supply chain software. Evaluate and champion new technologies, such as robotics, automation, and advanced analytics, to create a future-proof logistics infrastructure.
Budgeting & Financial Oversight
Develop and manage the annual budget for the entire logistics and distribution function. You will have P&L responsibility for your department, meticulously tracking expenses, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and ensuring all operations are performed within budgetary guidelines.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as the key liaison between the logistics department and other critical business functions, including Customer Service, Merchandising, Marketing, Finance, and IT. Ensure seamless communication and process alignment to support new product launches, promotional events, and overall business objectives.
Requirements for the Director of Logistics & Distribution with an E-commerce Retailer – Indianapolis, IN
We are seeking a seasoned and dynamic leader with a deep expertise in modern, high-volume logistics. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of strategic vision and hands-on operational capability.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 10-12 years of progressive experience in logistics, distribution, and supply chain management, with at least 5-7 years in a significant leadership role (Director or similar).
Industry Expertise
Direct and extensive experience within a fast-paced, high-volume B2C e-commerce or direct-to-consumer retail environment is absolutely essential. Experience with omnichannel distribution is a strong plus.
Leadership Acumen
Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and develop large, multi-site teams. A proven track record of building a positive and performance-driven culture is critical.
Technical Proficiency
Expert-level knowledge of Tier-1 Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) such as Manhattan, Blue Yonder, or Oracle, as well as Transportation Management Systems (TMS). Strong proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, Tableau, Power BI).
Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills
Exceptional analytical skills with a talent for interpreting complex data sets to drive business decisions. A structured, methodical approach to problem-solving and process improvement.
Continuous Improvement Mindset
Formal training and practical application of continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen are highly desirable.
Negotiation & Vendor Management
Proven experience in negotiating complex contracts with carriers, 3PLs, and other vendors, resulting in favorable terms and significant cost savings.
Financial Management
Strong financial acumen with experience developing and managing multi-million dollar operational budgets and P&L statements.
Professional Knowledge
A commitment to staying current with industry trends, regulations, and best practices, as promoted by organizations like the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP).
Communication Skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to audiences at all levels, including the executive team.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being.
Competitive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary, significant performance-based annual bonus, and long-term incentive plan.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with low premiums for employees and their families.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company-paid holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuous learning, including conferences, certifications, and further education to help you grow your skills.
Employee Discounts
Substantial employee discounts on all company products.
Wellness Programs
Access to wellness initiatives, including gym membership reimbursements and mental health resources.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive executive search firm managing this confidential recruitment. We specialize in connecting top-tier talent with industry-leading companies. If you are a transformative logistics leader who meets the qualifications outlined above and are excited by the prospect of building a world-class supply chain for a thriving e-commerce brand, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this pivotal role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. For more information about our expertise in this area, please visit our Supply Chain & Logistics Recruiting practice page. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. We look forward to reviewing your credentials.
